. >>> there has been a lot of attention paid to school lunches, especially with first lady michelle obama leading the push for healthier food. but there is something else going on that a growing number of our public schools across this country are seeing. an issue when the students are fed in the school day. our report tonight from nbc's kate tur. >> reporter: it's just after 6:00 in the morning, and this 17-year-old is rushing out the door for school. no time for breakfast, class starting at 8:15 his first meal today is pizza, only a couple of bites, though. >> it doesn't sit right with my stomach. >> reporter: that is because it is 9:55 in the morning, joe's regular fourth period lunch. >> i think it is too early. they should have lunch at lunchtime. >> reporter: early, but it is happening across the country. schools in at least six states start lunch before 10:00 in the morning. and in some places they eat as early as 8:30 in the morning. nobody thinks it is ideal, but for many schools like vernon high school here, they simply don't have another choice. >> reporter: a big reason, they